FVSU's 4-H program to promote science and technology

Published:
05/24/2013 12:00PM
By:
admin

Middle and high school students interested in the fields of science and technology will get a chance to showcase their knowledge while explore possible career opportunities at a college campus.

The 4-H program, part of Fort Valley State University's Cooperative Extension Program, is hosting the 2013 4-H STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) Health Rocks Summer Day Camp. For three weeks in June, the free day camp will take place on campus at the Pettigrew Center and the Agricultural Technology Conference Center (ATCC).

"We are very excited," said Woodie Hughes Jr., the university's interim 4-H program leader, who explained that it is an honor and a privilege to host a science program that will provide educational opportunities to young people.

"Research shows that the earlier you expose students to STEM material, the more likely they will pursue a career in that field," said Hughes.

During the program, students will participate in fun science experiments, build a solar energy house and tour FVSU's agricultural facilities. Teens and children will also take physical activities that promote a healthy lifestyle. Lunch and snacks will be provided.

Weeks one (June 3-7) and two (June 10-14) are reserved for young people entering grades six through eight. The final week, scheduled for June 17-20, is solely for ninth and 10th-graders.

To be eligible for the camp, young people must be in middle school or a high school underclassman (grades 6-10). They must submit a complete, legible application with parent or guardian signatures by May 30. Applications are available at the FVSU 4-H interim program leader's office, or the office of Jean Willis, administrative assistant in FVSU's Pettigrew Center. Admission is free on a first-come, first-serve basis and limited to the first 100 participants.

Daily sessions last from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Transportation is the responsibility of the child's parent or guardian. All campers must be picked up from the Pettigrew Center by 4 p.m.

Funding for the camp is provided from the Wal-Mart Youth Voice: Youth Choice 4-H Grant and the FVSU Cooperative Extension Program.

The 4-H program is a youth development organization sponsored by 109 land grant colleges in the U.S. Students from elementary through high school take part in activities designed to produce future leaders by stressing science, citizenship and healthy living.

For more information about the camps, contact Hughes at (478) 825-6219, (478) 235-8691 or e-mail at hughesw@fvsu.edu. Willis can be contacted at (478) 825-6269 or willise@fvsu.edu.